Rita Mary Murphy

Murphy, Rita M., RN, 96, of Providence, and formerly of Cumberland Hill, died peacefully on Friday, September 20, 2013 at Courtland Place, Greenville.Born in Fall River, Massachusetts, she was a daughter of the late Timothy C. and Mary F. (Murphy) Murphy.Miss Murphy was a graduate of Cumberland Grammar School, Saint Xavier Academy, Saint Joseph Hospital School of Nursing, Saint John's University School of Nursing, and Boston University School of Nursing, where she earned a Masters Degree in Nursing. In 1962, she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Education from Catholic Teachers College, and in 1966 was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Health from Salve Regina College.Rita began her nursing career in 1938 at Saint Joseph Hospital, Providence, and in 1944, began working for the State of Rhode Island, Department of Health. She worked as a staff nurse, general supervisor, and in 1962, was appointed Director of Public Health Nursing for the Rhode Island Department of Health, where she served for thirteen years, retiring in 1975.During her career, Rita received numerous awards and citations for her contributions to the nursing profession including the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal and an Honorary Citation from the Rhode Island State Nursing Association.Rita was a member of many catholic, charitable, civic and alumni associations including Saint Joseph Hospital Board of Trustees, Saint Xavier Alumnae Association, Boston University Alumni Association, the Rhode Island State Nursing Association, and the Third Order of Saint Domenic.Rita was a communicant of Saint Augustine Church and a member of the parish Rosary & Altar Society. She leaves several cousins in Castletown Bere, County Cork, Ireland and many dear friends.Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 24, 2013 at 10 :00 am in Saint Augustine Church, 639 Mount Pleasant Avenue, Providence. Burial will be private in Saint Ann Cemetery, Cranston. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Augustine Church, 20 Old Road, Providence, RI 02908 in her memory would be appreciated. boyleandsonfuneral.com